Chalcedony, of light honey colour with dark brown abstract markings in the centre which under close inspection reveal the silhouette of a rabbit hiding amongst a bush; the well hollowed bottle of rectangular form and sitting on a neat oval footrim.

Chinese,1780-1860
Height: 6cm
Stopper: abalone on glass imitating jadeite
Provenance: Robert Hall, 2000 (Chinese Whispers exhibition 1999 item 63)

This is a masterpiece in illusion. The bottle is well hollowed and delicious in itself but when under close inspection it becomes possible to see the rabbit with his white fur but large black ears and eyes it is a delightful surprise.

The rabbit is the fourth creature of the Chinese Zodiac and is a symbol for longevity.

Zodiac sign / Hare